How did the Antarctic evolve?

Antarctica's evolution began over 500 million years ago when it was part of the supercontinent Gondwana. As Gondwana fragmented during the Late Mesozoic era, Antarctica gradually separated from South America, Africa, and Australia, leading to its current position. The continent has undergone significant geological changes, with glaciation starting around 34 million years ago, which resulted in the formation of its vast ice sheets. These ice sheets have shaped the landscape and ecosystems, evolving into the cold, inhospitable environment we see today.